STEP 1

Start by lining the basket with the cellophane or plastic to ensure it’s waterproof. Soak the floral foam thoroughly by dropping (not pushing) it into a bowl of water. If you push it, it won’t soak through to the middle. Wait one to two minutes until it’s changed to a dark green colour and is heavy. Put the foam into the watertight bowl and place into your basket towards one side. Start placing the potted plants and bulbs into the basket, place the trailing ivy plant opposite the floral foam bowl. Some of the hyacinth bulbs can be placed behind the primulas as they will grow taller when opening.

Once you’ve arranged your plants, start by adding some fresh leaves and foliage to cover the floral foam and achieve a good shape for the flowers, making sure it’s in proportion with the basket. Add in the forsythia and willow, keeping it tall and towards the back of the foam. Continue to add in the other fresh and silk flowers, making sure all the leaves are removed from the stems before pushing into the foam.